11 May 2017

News Story: Abe seeks cooperation on N. Korea with Moon Jae In

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Tuesday he hopes to cooperate with Moon Jae In, who declared victory in South Korea's presidential election, in grappling with common challenges facing the two nations such as the growing threat posed by North Korea.

"Japan and South Korea face common challenges such as the issue of North Korea. If we cooperate, we can further contribute to the peace and prosperity in the region," Abe said in a statement.

"South Korea is the most important neighbor with which Japan shares strategic interests. I look forward to working with incoming President Moon Jae In from now on," he said.

While offering his congratulations on the election victory, Abe said he hopes to meet with Moon at the earliest possible date to frankly exchange views of mutual interest.

The two leaders could meet for the first time on the margins of a summit of the Group of 20 major economies to be held in July in Germany.

Read the full story at The Mainichi